GWENT Police made 28 arrests on Black Friday, with the force attending a total of 556 incidents in the 24 hours up to 6am on Saturday.

The incidents were described as ranging from minor public order to "very serious".

Hundreds of 999 emergency calls were recorded, with the majority of the calls and incidents dealt with linked to people drinking to excess, the Gwent Police Facebook group said.

Chief Inspector Dan Taylor highlighted that the vast majority of people who were out on Black Friday were celebrating for the right reasons and in the right way.

He added: "A small minority of people didn't heed our advice and appeals for people to enjoy the evening responsibly. They spoiled the evening from themselves and others and were dealt with robustly by officers and staff. "

He added that Gwent Police's advice is "if you are drinking over the festive period do so responsibly, look after your friends, and ensure you have a safe way planned for getting home".

He added: "At this time of year we expect an increased number of calls for the emergency services and I would urge the public to only dial 999 in a life-threatening emergency. For all other less serious queries please dial 101.

"Additional officers will be deployed to help deal with the increased numbers of people who are out. Whilst we are clear that our role will be to help people have a safe and enjoyable evening, I would remind anyone who is out and intent on causing any problems for others we won't tolerate any anti-social or threatening behaviour.

"Anyone who causes problems for other revellers or the emergency services can expect to be arrested."

Black Friday, the last normal working Friday before Christmas is known for being a night when thousands of revellers descend on the city and town centres.